Sopela Pro Junior Returns from July 24-27, 2014

PLAYA DE SOPELA, Bizcaya / Basque Country - A classic stop-over in the Basque Country, the Sopela Pro Junior is set to return to the iconic playa de Sopela from July 24-27, 2014. The event will once again welcome all men and women surfers under the age of 20 and upgrade this year with a 2-Star women's division.

â€œThe Sopela Pro Junior is once again returning this July to form a stop on the ASP Europe Pro Junior series,â€ Rob Gunning, ASP Europe Tour Manager reported. â€œReknown for its excellent set up and punchy beach breaks I am sure we will see some amazing performances. Especially if last year's epic final's day action is anything to go by.â€

The 2013 edition saw clean perfect conditions grace the final day of competition and surfers pushed the performance standards in the long peeling waves of Sopela. With a few leaders gone off to fight in the QS ranks, the door is wide opened for young up-and-comers to claim their spot amongst the European Junior hierarchy.

Winner of the 2013 Edition.

WSL / Laurent Masurel

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A classic beach vibe in Sopela.

WSL / Laurent Masurel

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Local hero Leticia Canales Bilbao (EUK) will enjoy home turf advantage in Sopela.

WSL / Laurent Masurel

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, reigning ASP Europe Junior Champion, will try to defend his title.

WSL / Laurent Masurel

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A beautiful morning lineup in Sopela.

WSL / Laurent Masurel

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Winner of the 2013 Edition.

WSL / Laurent Masurel

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Winner of the 2013 Edition.

WSL / Laurent Masurel

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â€œAnother fantastic plus is the women's event upgrading to a 2-Star event,â€ Gunning continued. â€œThis really adds importance to the rankings and all the athletes will be out to perform. Local Leticia Canales will have the advantage of surfing such an important event at her home break. I can't wait for this year's event to get underway.â€

Second event on the 2014 five-events leg for the men and six-events leg for the women, the Sopela Pro Junior will allow early predictions towards the final Junior rankings and potential qualifiers for the World finals.